COLLEGE APPLICATION

Utah Colleges and Universities

College Application 101

-Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply to College (Google Document)

You only need ONE main application platform
Always check each college’s website for specific requirements
Fee waivers are available for CommonApp, Coalition, and many colleges
Start early—especially for QuestBridge and competitive schools

-Frequently Asked Questions in College Applications → UCAW Brochure (PDF)

Common Application Sites

–CommonApp

Good for (almost) all colleges and universities outside of Utah

–Coalition Application

Accepted by many selective colleges and universities, including some Ivy League schools

–QuestBridge National College Match

Designed for high-achieving, low-income students applying to highly selective colleges (including schools like MIT, Stanford, Yale, etc.)
Offers the opportunity to earn a full four-year scholarship through the National College Match
- Application opens late summer/early fall (earlier than most other applications)
- Extensive application (more detailed than CommonApp, includes multiple essays and financial information)
If not matched, students can still apply to partner schools through QuestBridge Regular Decision or convert to CommonApp/Coalition

Which Application Should I Use?

-Applying to colleges in Utah?

Apply directly to schools. Find your school’s application site (Google Document).

-Applying to a mix of colleges across the U.S.?

Use CommonApp (most widely accepted and easiest for multiple schools)

-Applying to selective/private colleges (including some Ivy League schools)?

Use CommonApp or Coalition Application (Tip: Most students should just stick with CommonApp unless a school specifically prefers Coalition)

-High-achieving student with significant financial need?

Apply through QuestBridge FIRST (early fall)

Then use CommonApp/Coalition as a backup if not matched

Send Transcripts Through Parchment

-Students can send official transcripts through Parchment.

Getting lost? See step-by-step Parchment instructions (PDF).

-All high school seniors in Granite School District can request transcripts free-of-charge now through May of their graduation year. Be sure to use your Granite email so the charge is removed.

I’ve Applied…What’s Next?

–With the online portion of your application complete, there are a few more steps you need to finish. Read about steps following college application (PDF).

-Students may request letters of recommendation (PDF) from teachers, counselors, and other adult mentors.

-If you are requesting a letter of recommendation, ask your counselor several weeks in advance. It is also kind to write a thank you letter for those who help you in your pursuit of college.

Make an appointment with your College Access Advisor if you need help or have questions about college applications.

Utah Colleges and Universities